Sony Reon Pocket Pro Plus: Wearable AC for Extreme Heat

Amidst record-breaking temperatures in the UK, a wearable air conditioner from Sony has emerged as a potential lifeline for those struggling with the heat. The Sony Reon Pocket Pro Plus, the latest iteration of the company's personal cooling device, utilizes the Peltier effect to deliver targeted cooling, offering a much-needed respite during intense heatwaves.

The device features a cooled metal plate that rests against the back of the neck, targeting major circulatory pathways. Sony claims the Pro Plus model can reduce the plate's temperature by an additional two degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) compared to its predecessor, representing a 20 percent increase in cooling performance. This cooled blood then circulates through the body, helping to lower overall body temperature. Hot air is expelled upwards and outwards via an adjustable exhaust, with an included attachment to customize airflow for different clothing styles.

The original article's author, writing from London during a heatwave that saw temperatures exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, highlighted the stark contrast between the UK's lack of widespread air conditioning and the prevalence of A/C in the United States, where it's found in an estimated 90 percent of homes. In England, that figure is as low as 4.3 percent, according to research from the University of Reading. This scarcity means that public transportation, many businesses, and most homes offer little to no relief from oppressive summer heat.

Enhanced Features and User Experience

Beyond its cooling capabilities, the Reon Pocket Pro Plus boasts several user-centric improvements. Sony has integrated physical buttons on the device itself, allowing users to control power, switch between manual and smart cooling modes, and adjust temperature without needing to access the companion smartphone app. The Y-frame neckband has also been redesigned to provide 40 percent more securing force than older models, ensuring the device stays in place during wear, though its visibility under certain clothing can be noticeable.

The device operates quietly, with fans that are only audible in very quiet environments. Sony's algorithms work to monitor and adjust cooling based on both device and ambient temperature readings. A 'smart tag' accessory, designed to clip onto a bag and measure surrounding humidity and temperature, aims to provide additional data for optimal cooling. However, in practical use, the tag proved somewhat unreliable, with frequent unpairing and a finicky reconnect button. The author found the device performed efficiently even without the tag.

Battery life is a significant consideration for any wearable device. Sony states the Reon Pro Plus can last up to 10 hours on a semi-manual setting or up to 15 hours in its 'Smart Cool' mode, which intelligently adjusts output based on sensor data. During the peak heatwave conditions described, the author experienced closer to four to five hours of continuous cooling. The ability to charge the device via USB-C while wearing it is also possible, though it may require managing a visible cable.

While the primary focus is on cooling, the Reon Pocket Pro Plus also includes a four-level warm mode for colder months, though this feature was not tested during the summer heat. The device is also noted as being splash- and sweat-resistant, adding to its practicality for active use. Despite its potential to look like a medical device, the significant cooling effect makes it a compelling option for individuals seeking relief from extreme heat, especially in regions with limited access to traditional air conditioning.